Name: Millionaire Cranberry Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups sour cream or plain greek yogurt; 2 cups pineapple tidbits; 2 cups mini marshmallows; 1 cup pecans; 2 cups coconut; cranberry sauce; 3 cups fresh cranberries; ¾ cup sugar; 1 cup water; 1 cinnamon stick

Indulge in a delightful burst of flavors with this millionaire cranberry salad. This dish combines the tartness of fresh cranberries with the sweetness of pineapple tidbits and mini marshmallows, giving you a refreshing yet rich treat that's perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Millionaire Cranberry Salad Recipe

One ingredient you might not commonly have at home is fresh cranberries, which are crucial for this recipe. They add a unique tartness that balances the sweetness of other ingredients. Additionally, mini marshmallows and pecans may not be regular pantry items but are easily found in most supermarkets. Ensure to check the baking or snack aisles for these.

Ingredients For Millionaire Cranberry Salad

sour cream: A thick, tangy dairy product that adds a creamy texture to the salad.

plain greek yogurt: A healthier alternative to sour cream with a similar tangy taste.

pineapple tidbits: Small pieces of sweet, juicy pineapple that add a tropical flair.

mini marshmallows: Soft, sweet confections that provide a fluffy texture.

pecans: Crunchy nuts that add a nutty flavor and texture.

coconut: Shredded, unsweetened coconut adds a chewy texture and tropical taste.

cranberry sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce made from cranberries, often used during holiday seasons.

fresh cranberries: Tart berries that form the base of the homemade cranberry sauce.

sugar: Sweetener that balances the tartness of the cranberries.

water: Used to cook the cranberries into a sauce.

cinnamon stick: Adds a warm, spicy note to the cranberry sauce.

One reader, Erv Steel says:

This millionaire cranberry salad is a delightful blend of sweet and tart flavors. The fresh cranberries and pineapple tidbits add a refreshing twist, while the pecans and coconut give it a satisfying crunch. Perfect for holiday gatherings!

Erv Steel

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Millionaire Cranberry Salad

How to combine ingredients in a saucepan: Place cranberries, sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick into a saucepan and mix them together before heating. How to bring to a boil and simmer: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it starts to boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. How to cool the cranberry mixture: After simmering, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. The sauce will thicken as it cools. How to mix ingredients: Combine 1½ cups of the cooled cranberry mixture with the other ingredients and stir well. How to let sit: Allow the mixture to sit for 4 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld together.

How To Make Millionaire Cranberry Salad

This cranberry salad gives a creamy base filled with all the crunch! From pineapples to pecans to coconuts and marshmallows, this dish is a whole treat!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Cool Time: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupssour cream or plain greek yogurt
2cupspineapple tidbits,well drained
2cupsmini marshmallows
1cuppecans,chopped
2cupscoconut,flaked

Cranberry Sauce

3cupsfresh cranberries
¾cupsugar
1cupwater
1cinnamon stick

Instructions

Combine cranberries, sugar, water, and cinnamon stick in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let simmer for about 10 minutes. Cool completely (sauce will thicken upon cooling).
Add 1½ cups of cooled cranberry mixture from step 1 and stir well.
Let sit 4 hours or overnight.

Nutrition

Calories: 336.00kcal
Fat: 21.66g
Saturated Fat: 10.67g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.62g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.62g
Carbohydrates: 36.83g
Fiber: 4.52g
Sugar: 28.03g
Protein: 2.89g
Cholesterol: 23.92mg
Sodium: 34.93mg
Calcium: 70.47mg
Potassium: 228.35mg
Iron: 0.95mg
Vitamin A: 83.28µg
Vitamin C: 21.22mg

Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Millionaire Cranberry Salad

To enhance the flavor of the cranberry sauce, consider adding a splash of orange juice or a bit of orange zest while it simmers. This will add a subtle citrus note that complements the tartness of the cranberries beautifully.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Millionaire Cranberry Salad

Use canned cranberry sauce: Substitute homemade cranberry sauce with canned to save time on preparation.

Pre-chopped pecans: Buy pre-chopped pecans to avoid the hassle of chopping them yourself.

Ready-made pineapple tidbits: Opt for canned pineapple tidbits instead of fresh to cut down on prep time.

Pre-shredded coconut: Use pre-shredded coconut to eliminate the need for grating.

Quick chill method: Cool the cranberry mixture faster by placing it in a shallow dish in the fridge.

Substitute Ingredients For Millionaire Cranberry Salad Recipe

sour cream - Substitute with plain Greek yogurt: Both provide a tangy flavor and creamy texture, but Greek yogurt is a healthier option with more protein.
pineapple tidbits - Substitute with mandarin oranges: They offer a similar sweetness and juicy texture, adding a citrusy twist.
mini marshmallows - Substitute with dried cranberries: They add a chewy texture and enhance the cranberry flavor without the extra sugar.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar crunch and nutty flavor, making them a good alternative.
coconut - Substitute with chopped almonds: They provide a different but pleasant crunch and nutty flavor, suitable for those who may not like coconut.
cranberry sauce - Substitute with raspberry preserves: Raspberry preserves offer a similar tartness and sweetness, complementing the fresh cranberries.
fresh cranberries - Substitute with dried cranberries: If fresh cranberries are unavailable, dried cranberries rehydrated in water can be used, though they will be sweeter.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey provides natural sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile, making it a healthier alternative.
water - Substitute with orange juice: Orange juice adds a citrusy flavor that complements the cranberries well.
cinnamon stick - Substitute with ground cinnamon: Ground cinnamon can be used in smaller quantities to provide the same warm, spicy flavor.

How to Beautifully Present Millionaire Cranberry Salad

Use elegant glassware: Present the millionaire cranberry salad in a crystal-clear martini glass or a coupe glass to elevate its visual appeal.
Layer the ingredients: Start with a base layer of pineapple tidbits, followed by a layer of mini marshmallows, and then a layer of the cranberry sauce. Repeat the layers to create a visually appealing parfait effect.
Garnish with fresh elements: Top the salad with a sprinkle of pecans and a few fresh cranberries for a pop of color and texture.
Add a touch of greenery: Place a small mint leaf or a sprig of fresh rosemary on top for a hint of freshness and an aromatic touch.
Drizzle with a sauce: Lightly drizzle a bit of the remaining cranberry sauce over the top to enhance the flavor and add a glossy finish.
Serve chilled: Ensure the salad is well-chilled before serving to maintain its refreshing quality and to keep the mini marshmallows and coconut from becoming too soft.
Use a decorative plate: Place the glass on a decorative plate with a small doily or a piece of parchment paper underneath to add an extra layer of sophistication.
Incorporate texture: Add a small side of coconut flakes and finely chopped pecans on the plate for guests to sprinkle on top as they desire.
Highlight the cinnamon: Place a small cinnamon stick next to the glass as a nod to the cinnamon stick used in the cranberry sauce, adding a rustic and aromatic element to the presentation.
Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar: Lightly dust the top of the salad with powdered sugar for a delicate, snowy effect that enhances the festive feel of the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Delightful Salad

Saucepan: Used to cook the cranberries, sugar, water, and cinnamon stick mixture. It allows for even heating and simmering.
Stirring spoon: Essential for mixing the cranberry sauce as it cooks and ensuring the ingredients are well combined.
Measuring cups: Necessary for accurately measuring out the sour cream or plain Greek yogurt, pineapple tidbits, mini marshmallows, pecans, coconut, and cranberries.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cooled cranberry mixture with the other ingredients. A large bowl is preferable to accommodate all the components.
Refrigerator: Required to chill the salad for 4 hours or overnight, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Knife: Needed to chop the pecans if they are not pre-chopped.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the pecans.
Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the mixing bowl and ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
Serving dish: Used to present the finished millionaire cranberry salad attractively.
Cooling rack: Optional but helpful for cooling the cranberry sauce more quickly and evenly.

Proper Storage and Freezing Methods for Millionaire Cranberry Salad

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious.
If you want to prepare this salad ahead of time, you can make the cranberry sauce and store it separately in the refrigerator for up to a week. When ready to serve, simply mix the sauce with the other ingredients.
To freeze this salad, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw the salad overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Keep in mind that the texture of the marshmallows and pecans may change slightly after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor will still be delicious.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add an extra dollop of sour cream or greek yogurt to the salad after thawing.

Fascinating Facts About the Origins of Millionaire Cranberry Salad

A random fact about this recipe is that it combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of mini marshmallows and pineapple tidbits, creating a unique flavor profile. The addition of pecans and coconut adds a delightful crunch and tropical twist, making it a festive and refreshing dish perfect for holiday gatherings.

Is Making Millionaire Cranberry Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

The millionaire cranberry salad is a delightful blend of cranberries, pineapple tidbits, and pecans. While the ingredients like mini marshmallows and coconut are relatively affordable, the fresh cranberries and pecans can be pricier. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD. Considering the unique flavors and festive appeal, the overall verdict is a solid 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is Millionaire Cranberry Salad Healthy or Unhealthy?

The millionaire cranberry salad recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several ingredients:

Sour cream and Greek yogurt are high in saturated fats
Marshmallows and sugar contribute to a high sugar content
Coconut and pecans are high in calories and fats

However, the recipe does include some nutritious elements, such as fresh cranberries, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, and pineapple, which provides vitamin C, manganese, and dietary fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace sour cream with low-fat Greek yogurt to reduce saturated fat content
Reduce the amount of marshmallows and sugar to lower the overall sugar content
Use unsweetened coconut to minimize added sugars
Incorporate more fresh fruits, such as diced apples or oranges, to increase fiber and vitamin content
Replace some of the pecans with lower-calorie nuts, like almonds or walnuts
Use a sugar substitute, such as stevia or erythritol, to sweeten the cranberry sauce instead of sugar

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of the millionaire cranberry salad while still maintaining its delightful taste and texture. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying this salad as an occasional treat can be part of a healthy, well-rounded diet.

Editor's Opinion: Why Millionaire Cranberry Salad is a Must-Try

This millionaire cranberry salad recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The tartness of the fresh cranberries, balanced by the sweetness of pineapple tidbits and mini marshmallows, creates a harmonious taste. The addition of pecans and coconut adds a satisfying crunch and tropical flair. Using sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy base that ties everything together. Allowing the salad to sit for several hours or overnight ensures the flavors meld beautifully. This dish is perfect for festive occasions, bringing a refreshing and indulgent twist to traditional cranberry salads.

Enhance Your Millionaire Cranberry Salad Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of Brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection, drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts pairs beautifully with the sweet and tart notes of the Millionaire Cranberry Salad, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Maple-Glazed Carrots: Picture tender carrots roasted until they are just soft enough to melt in your mouth, then coated in a luscious maple glaze. The natural sweetness of the carrots complements the tartness of the cranberries, making each bite a harmonious blend of sweet and savory.

Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin: Envision a succulent pork tenderloin encrusted with a medley of fresh herbs and spices, roasted to juicy perfection. The savory, aromatic pork contrasts wonderfully with the creamy, fruity richness of the Millionaire Cranberry Salad, offering a balanced and satisfying meal.

Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety butternut squash soup that warms your soul with every spoonful. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness of the squash provide a comforting backdrop to the vibrant flavors of the cranberry salad, making it a perfect starter or side.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Think of fluffy mashed potatoes infused with the rich, aromatic essence of garlic. The creamy, buttery goodness of the potatoes enhances the luxurious texture of the Millionaire Cranberry Salad, creating a decadent and satisfying pairing.

Delicious Alternatives to Millionaire Cranberry Salad

Cranberry Pecan Salad: Dive into a delightful blend of cranberries, pecans, and cream cheese. This salad is a perfect balance of sweet and tangy, making it a great side dish for any holiday meal.

Pineapple Coconut Ambrosia: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this pineapple and coconut ambrosia. The addition of mini marshmallows and mandarin oranges makes it a refreshing and creamy dessert.

Cranberry Orange Relish: A zesty twist on traditional cranberry sauce, this relish combines fresh cranberries with orange zest and juice. Perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your holiday turkey.

Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad: Elevate your lunch game with this chicken salad featuring pecans and dried cranberries. Tossed in a creamy mayonnaise dressing, it's perfect for sandwiches or on a bed of greens.

Coconut Pineapple Rice Pudding: Indulge in a creamy rice pudding infused with coconut milk and pineapple. This dessert is a comforting and tropical treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why trust this Millionaire Cranberry Salad Recipe:

This millionaire cranberry salad recipe is a delightful blend of tangy cranberries, creamy sour cream, and sweet pineapple tidbits. The fresh cranberries and cinnamon stick create a rich, homemade cranberry sauce that perfectly complements the mini marshmallows and coconut. With the added crunch of pecans, this dish is a textural delight. Trust this recipe for its balanced flavors and the use of fresh, quality ingredients.

Want to share your own twist on this Millionaire Cranberry Salad recipe or discuss other creative ways to use cranberries in your holiday dishes? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the conversation!

FAQ:

How long does it take to make the millionaire cranberry salad?

The whole process, including the cooling and sitting time, takes about 4 hours and 20 minutes. The actual hands-on time is around 20 minutes, but you need to let the cranberry mixture cool completely and then let the salad sit for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Can I use canned cranberry sauce instead of making it from scratch?

You could use canned cranberry sauce if you're in a pinch, but making it from scratch with fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and a cinnamon stick gives a much better flavor and texture. Plus, it's pretty easy to make!

What can I substitute for pecans if I have a nut allergy?

If you have a nut allergy, you can leave out the pecans altogether or substitute them with something like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a bit of crunch.

Can I use sweetened coconut instead of unsweetened?

Yes, you can use sweetened coconut if you prefer a sweeter salad. Just keep in mind that the overall sweetness of the salad will increase, so you might want to adjust the amount of sugar in the cranberry mixture accordingly.

How long can I store the millionaire cranberry salad in the fridge?

You can store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld together nicely over time, making it even tastier the next day.